Birthstones have captivated human imagination for centuries, serving as symbols of protection, good fortune, and personal significance. Each month of the year is associated with one or more gemstones, and these stones carry a rich tapestry of history, meaning, and gemological importance. This article explores the birthstones by month in detail, drawing on reliable sources to present an in-depth look at their origins, properties, cultural significance, and modern relevance.
From January’s deep red garnet to December’s striking tanzanite, each birthstone tells a unique story rooted in tradition, folklore, and science. The modern list of birthstones was standardized in 1912 by the Jewelers of America (JA), although many traditional stones have also endured through time. Some months now have multiple options—both modern and traditional—offering a broader selection for those seeking to celebrate their month of birth with a gemstone.
The following sections will explore the birthstones by month, including their gemological properties, historical uses, and symbolic meanings. Additionally, we will touch on how these stones are formed, where they are found, and what makes each of them unique.
History and Lore of Birthstones
The concept of assigning gemstones to specific months has ancient roots. One of the earliest references to birthstones can be found in the Old Testament's Book of Exodus, which describes the twelve stones on the High Priest’s breastplate. These stones were believed to represent the twelve tribes of Israel and were imbued with spiritual power. However, the exact identities of these ancient stones remain a subject of scholarly debate, as the names used in ancient texts may not correspond directly to the gemstones we recognize today.
In ancient times, gemstones were often associated with zodiac signs rather than calendar months. This zodiacal system was particularly influential in medieval Europe and the Middle East. The belief in the protective and magical properties of gemstones was widespread, with each stone believed to influence health, mood, and even destiny.
The modern birthstone list, as we know it today, was formalized in 1912 by the Jewelers of America. This standardization helped unify the jewelry trade and made it easier for consumers to identify and choose gemstones associated with their birth months. While the modern list has remained largely consistent, it has also evolved to include newer additions such as alexandrite and tanzanite, which have been officially recognized in recent years.
Despite the standardization, traditional or ancient birthstones still hold cultural significance in many parts of the world. These older associations often differ from the modern list and may include stones like bloodstone, sardonyx, and lapis lazuli. In some cases, these traditional stones are still used today, especially in jewelry that blends historical and contemporary designs.
Birthstones by Month and Their Properties
The following section provides a detailed overview of the modern and traditional birthstones by month, along with their gemological properties and symbolic meanings. Each gemstone is described in terms of its color, hardness, source locations, and cultural significance.
January: Garnet
Modern Birthstone: Garnet
Traditional Birthstone: Garnet
Garnet is a silicate mineral group that includes several species of gemstones, each with its own unique properties. While the most common color is red, garnet can also appear in shades of green, yellow, orange, and even blue. The blue garnet, known as "blue garnet," is a rare variety discovered in the 1990s and is highly prized for its color.
Garnet has a reasonably tough Mohs hardness rating of around 7, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry. It is often used in rings, pendants, and earrings. Garnet is found in various parts of the world, including India, Brazil, and the United States.
Historically, garnet has been associated with protection, particularly for travelers. In ancient times, it was believed to ward off nightmares and snakebites. The name "garnet" comes from the early French word grenate, meaning "seedy," due to its resemblance to a pomegranate seed. Garnet is also a popular choice for second wedding anniversaries.
February: Amethyst
Modern Birthstone: Amethyst
Traditional Birthstone: Amethyst
Amethyst is a variety of quartz known for its beautiful purple hue, which can range from light lavender to deep violet. It has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable for use in jewelry. Amethyst is found in locations such as Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia.
The name "amethyst" comes from the Greek word amethystos, meaning "sober," as it was believed to protect against intoxication. In ancient Greece, people would drink water from amethyst cups to avoid getting drunk. Amethyst was also reserved for royalty and was considered a symbol of nobility and wisdom.
March: Aquamarine and Bloodstone
Modern Birthstone: Aquamarine
Traditional Birthstone: Bloodstone
Aquamarine is a blue to blue-green variety of beryl, known for its calm, sea-like color. It has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone suitable for rings and pendants. Aquamarine is primarily found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Nigeria.
Historically, aquamarine was believed to protect sailors and help them navigate the seas. Sailors would carry aquamarine talismans etched with the likeness of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea. It was also thought to cure heart and stomach ailments when the water it was soaked in was consumed.
Bloodstone, the traditional birthstone for March, is a type of jasper with a dark green background and red specks. It is believed to have healing properties and was used in ancient times for treating wounds and blood-related ailments.
April: Diamond
Modern Birthstone: Diamond
Traditional Birthstone: Diamond
Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring mineral on Earth, with a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale. It is a form of crystallized carbon and is found in various parts of the world, including South Africa, Russia, and Canada.
Diamonds have long been associated with love, strength, and purity. In ancient times, they were thought to bring courage and protection. In Sanskrit, the diamond is called vajra, meaning "lightning," and in Hindu mythology, it was the weapon of Indra, the king of gods.
Today, diamonds are the most popular gemstone for engagement rings and are also used to mark significant anniversaries.
May: Emerald
Modern Birthstone: Emerald
Traditional Birthstone: Emerald
Emerald is a vibrant green variety of beryl, with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its rich color and is found in countries like Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia.
Emerald has been prized for thousands of years, with ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Romans using it in jewelry and as a symbol of fertility and rebirth. It is also believed to bring wisdom and enhance the eyesight.
June: Alexandrite, Pearl, and Moonstone
Modern Birthstone: Alexandrite
Traditional Birthstone: Pearl
Alexandrite is a rare and highly valuable gemstone that changes color under different lighting conditions. It is a type of chrysoberyl and has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale. Alexandrite is primarily found in Brazil and India.
Pearl is another June birthstone and is not a mineral but an organic gem formed inside the shells of mollusks. It is soft, with a hardness of 2.5 to 4.5, and is often used in jewelry such as necklaces and earrings. Pearls have been cultivated for centuries and are associated with purity, elegance, and wisdom.
Moonstone is a milky, white gemstone with a shimmering effect known as adularescence. It is a type of feldspar and has a hardness of 6 to 6.5. Moonstone is believed to promote emotional balance and intuition.
July: Ruby
Modern Birthstone: Ruby
Traditional Birthstone: Ruby
Ruby is a red variety of corundum, the same mineral that forms sapphire. It has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale and is found in countries like Myanmar, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. Ruby is one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world.
Ruby has been associated with passion, protection, and prosperity. It was often worn by royalty and warriors for its believed protective powers. In ancient times, it was thought to bring good fortune and ward off evil.
August: Peridot, Sardonyx, and Spinel
Modern Birthstone: Peridot and Spinel
Traditional Birthstone: Sardonyx
Peridot is a green gemstone with a hardness of 6.5 to 7. It is found in volcanic rocks and is often used in jewelry. Peridot is believed to bring good luck and is associated with strength and vitality.
Spinel is another modern August birthstone. It has a hardness of 8 and is often mistaken for ruby or sapphire due to its similar appearance. Spinel is found in countries like Burma, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.
Sardonyx is the traditional August birthstone and is a type of chalcedony with bands of red and white. It was used in ancient times for amulets and seals and was believed to bring protection and strength.
September: Sapphire
Modern Birthstone: Sapphire
Traditional Birthstone: Sapphire
Sapphire is a blue variety of corundum and has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. It is one of the hardest and most durable gemstones. Sapphires are found in countries like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Australia.
Sapphire is associated with wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. It has been used in royal regalia and religious artifacts for centuries. Sapphires were also believed to protect the wearer from harm and bring good fortune.
October: Opal and Tourmaline
Modern Birthstone: Opal and Tourmaline
Traditional Birthstone: Opal
Opal is a hydrated amorphous silica with a hardness of 5 to 6.5. It is known for its iridescent play of colors and is often used in jewelry. Opal is found in countries like Australia, Mexico, and Brazil.
Tourmaline is another October birthstone and is a complex borosilicate mineral with a hardness of 7 to 7.5. It comes in a wide range of colors and is believed to promote creativity and individuality.
November: Topaz and Citrine
Modern Birthstone: Topaz and Citrine
Traditional Birthstone: Topaz
Topaz is a silicate mineral with a hardness of 8. It is found in countries like Brazil, Russia, and the United States. Topaz comes in a variety of colors, including yellow, blue, and pink.
Citrine is a yellow variety of quartz with a hardness of 7. It is often used in jewelry and is believed to bring energy and abundance.
December: Tanzanite, Turquoise, Zircon, and Blue Topaz
Modern Birthstone: Tanzanite, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz
Traditional Birthstone: Turquoise and Lapis Lazuli
Tanzanite is a blue to violet gemstone with a hardness of 6 to 7. It is found only in Tanzania and was discovered in the 1960s. Tanzanite is known for its strong pleochroism, meaning it shows different colors when viewed from different angles.
Turquoise is a blue-green mineral with a hardness of 5 to 6. It has been used for thousands of years in jewelry and decorative objects. Turquoise is found in the United States, Iran, and Egypt.
Blue topaz and blue zircon are also December birthstones. Blue topaz is a color-treated gemstone with a hardness of 8, while blue zircon is a zirconium silicate with a hardness of 7.5 to 8.
Lapis lazuli is a traditional December birthstone and is a metamorphic rock with a hardness of 5 to 6. It is known for its deep blue color and golden flecks and has been used in art and jewelry for centuries.
Gemological Properties and Care of Birthstones
The care and maintenance of birthstones depend on their hardness, cleavage, and chemical composition. For example, pearls are soft and should not be exposed to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. Opal, with its low hardness and high water content, should be kept in a cool, dry place to prevent cracking.
Harder gemstones like diamond, ruby, and sapphire are more durable and can be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. However, they should still be handled with care to avoid damage from impacts or exposure to high heat.
Each gemstone has unique properties that influence how it is used in jewelry. For example, peridot and opal are best suited for pendants and earrings, while diamonds and sapphires are ideal for rings and bracelets.
Conclusion
Birthstones by month offer a fascinating intersection of history, science, and culture. From the ancient zodiacal associations to the modern list formalized in 1912, these gemstones have played a significant role in human traditions and beliefs. Each stone carries its own unique properties, symbolism, and beauty, making them not only valuable in jewelry but also meaningful in personal and cultural contexts.
Whether chosen for their historical significance, gemological properties, or symbolic meaning, birthstones continue to be a popular and enduring part of the jewelry world. As new discoveries and additions are made to the list, the legacy of birthstones will continue to evolve, enriching the lives of those who wear them.